Today we’ll look at an inspiring example of courage. But first grab yourself a cuppa, get comfy & we’ll begin…

Do you often wonder if you’ll have what it takes in the face of imminent danger?

I certainly did since having Chronic illness take up residence & my body isn’t as fit or strong as it used to be! But does Courage necessarily rely on health & fitness?

The following definition sheds some light on this;

“Courage is the quality of being ready and willing to face negative situations involving danger or pain…Showing courage is often thought of as facing such situations without fear, but it also involves facing them despite fear.” Ref

Courage then is found within & what we do with it in the face of danger, often doesn’t have anything to do with physical strength.

Recently, I was placed into just such a situation that needed instant action to go to the aide of a stranger in grave danger.

“…Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or intimidated, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1: 9

God was definitely there enabling me to protect this vulnerable person against an aggressive foe until help arrived on the scene.

Since this incident & especially in the light of Israel being in the daily headlines at the moment, my thoughts have turned to an inspiring & courageous woman who seemed fearless in the face of constant danger.

A journey to Jerusalem 

In 2020 I began a ladies Book Club in my area & one of our early reads was a book titled;  Appointment in Jerusalem: A True Story of Faith, Love, and the Miraculous Power of Prayer.*  Which is Lydia Prince’s biography written by her husband Derek Prince.

At the time I couldn’t put this book down & read it in one sitting, all 300 pages! Lydia’s story has had a profound impact upon me, as I found her unwavering faith & courage so inspiring, especially her passion to follow God’s calling for her life despite the obstacles that she faced along the way.

The Call…

It all started when Lydia felt a stirring in her spirit, although she didn’t know what it was at the time as she didn’t know God or His Son, Jesus at that time.

But she knew there was something more… Someone more who was asking her to follow Him.

She had been feeling that her life while full & successful was at the same time empty…

To that point Lydia had done well in her life. She was an accomplished teacher with a very comfortable lifestyle in her own home with a housekeeper.

With an imminent marriage proposal on the horizon from an equally accomplished man who she had known for some time. But somehow she felt this was not for her.

Lydia’s obedience & fervour to seek the One true God who was reaching out to her was rewarded in amazing & miraculous ways.

Courage, obedience & fervour

This book shares Lydia’s spiritual life with an honesty & openness that is quite refreshing. It is also very thought provoking, especially her dogged courage in the face of persecution & exclusion by others.

But Lydia found that God met with her in unique ways, giving her direction & leading through not only His Word but through prayer, dreams, visions & His people.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight…”

Prov 3: 5 & 6

Giving up the marriage proposal, her career, home & belongings, leaving family & friends behind she journeyed to a far off land ~ which was then called Palestine (this was in the time just before Israel was reinstated as a nation) with very little finances nor specifics as to what exactly God wanted her to do once she got there.

However, she followed her Saviour to Jerusalem. And He met her needs at every twist & turn along the way! His protection was definitely with her during this very dangerous period in Jerusalem (similar to today).

Lydia’s faith, Courage & obedience is uplifting, inspirational & encouraging…

Lydia always kept her eyes upon her Saviour & never wavered from the path He had called her to journey upon. Even in the face of persecution she did not flinch.

No matter what opposition she faced, whether from family, friends, church hierarchy or the very people she was sent to minister amongst. She kept her eyes firmly upon God, His calling & purpose for her life.

I highly encourage you to read this most interesting book especially in the light of current world events.

I think you’ll find Lydia’s life rather thought provoking & most encouraging in your own relationship with the Father & His plans for your life in today’s crazy  world.

Until next time,

Jennifer

You’re most welcome to join me in The Reading Nook

Or in Prayer

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© 2024 Jennifer M. Ross, All Rights Reserved. Photo by Jessica Lewis on pexels.com

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* Disclaimer; I do not prosper by any financial means in giving my opinion of this book.